Veggie sushi perfection from Takumi Japanese Bistro & Bar in Ellicott City — fresh, artful, and full of flavor.
From hidden gems to lakeside views, Howard County serves up some seriously crave-worthy sushi, and we’re not just talking California rolls. Whether you’re a soy sauce dipper, wasabi daredevil, or sashimi purist, this flavorful lineup of sushi spots (plus a few Korean-style twists) delivers all the umami with a side of cool vibes.
Sushi Sono – Columbia with a View
Let’s kick things off with a classic: Sushi Sono. Tucked along the waterfront at Lake Kittamaqundi in downtown Columbia, this Japanese restaurant pairs an elegant menu with a view that makes every bite even better.
A true local favorite, Sushi Sono earns its reputation as a cornerstone of Columbia dining. The fish? Impeccably fresh. The rolls? Edible art. The service? Warm, welcoming, and just what you want after a round of sake. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner and walk around the lake, impressing out-of-towners with the concert scene nearby, or just treating yourself, this is the place where sushi dreams come true.
Must try: The Crabmeat roll (made with jumbo lump crab), Yasai-Maki roll (sweet potato + veggie magic), crispy soft shell crab appetizer, and those unforgettable sashimi boats.
Takumi Sushi Japanese Bistro & Bar – Mall Vibes, Elevated
Inside The Mall in Columbia, Takumi Sushi blends sleek bistro energy with next-level freshness, like, air-shipped twice a week kind of fresh. That Spanish Blue Flag tuna? Imported from Japan just for you.
Takumi’s menu is a total vibe: bold flavors, flawless cuts, and presentation made for your camera roll. It’s equal parts precision and play, which is perfect for a post-shopping bite, a spontaneous dinner date, or sushi lovers who appreciate the art as much as the taste. The Happy Hour and bar scene? Just the cherry on top.
Must try: Kick things off with the Hamachi Carpaccio, Amaebi Tray, or go big with the 40-piece Takumi Supreme Sashimi. Don’t skip the Signature Maki Roll with spicy tuna, lobster tempura, and truffle sauce. Yes, truffle.
Takumi Sushi Japanese Bistro & Bar
Yama Sushi – Authentic Taste in Ellicott City
Hidden in the Dorsey Search Village Center, Yama Sushi is a true neighborhood gem with a global edge. Chef Jackie Nakajima brings over 40 years of sushi mastery straight from Japan to Ellicott City, and you can taste the tradition in every roll, slice and slurp.
This cozy, no-frills spot lets the food do the talking. Whether you’re all about sashimi or just getting into sushi via poke bowls, Yama delivers serious flavor without the fuss.
Must try: Fried Soft Shell Crab appetizer, Octopus and Surf Clam sashimi (for the adventurous), the Yama Roll (with crab meat), the Spider Roll (fried soft shell crab done right), and a steaming bowl of soul-warming Udon.
Yama Sushi
KimBapNaRa – Not Sushi, but So Worth It
Okay, so KimBapNaRa doesn’t serve sushi in the traditional sense, but if you love sushi, you’ll definitely want to stop by. Tucked into Ellicott City's Koreatown, this family-owned favorite is a local legend for Korean comfort food, especially their crave-worthy kimbap (aka sushi’s fun, flavor-packed cousin).
Kimbap is the star here — rice and seaweed wrapped around bold fillings like bulgogi beef, pickled veggies, or spicy kimchi, all sliced into perfect little bites. Add in spicy ddukbokyi, sizzling bibimbap, and other Korean street food staples, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes.
Must try: Beef Kimbap, Spicy Ddukbokyi, and the Bibimbap. (Pro tip: come hungry.)
KimBapNaRa
Lets Roll – Korean Flavors, Your Way in Clarksville
For a build-your-own twist on Korean classics, head to Lets Roll inside The Common Kitchen at Clarksville Commons. This bright, modern food stall is all about fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and making your perfect bowl or roll, your way.
Think kimbap (Korea’s answer to sushi rolls) and bibimbap (rice bowls with a rainbow of toppings), customized with options for gluten-free, halal, vegan, and vegetarian diets. It’s fast, casual, and packed with taste. Plus, the community vibe at Clarksville Commons makes it a fun stop for lunch, dinner, or a quick refuel between weekend adventures.
Must try: Bulgogi Beef Kimbap or Bibimbap, the unexpected (and awesome) Spam Kimbap, and definitely grab an outdoor seat outdoors if the weather’s nice.
Let's Roll
Stay & Savor More
With so many craveable options, why not make it a sushi weekend? Book a room at the Sleep Inn and turn your foodie adventure into an overnight getaway. With easy access to Columbia, Ellicott City, and Clarksville, your next great bite is never far away.
Ready to roll? These Howard County sushi spots are packed with flavor, style, and a side of local charm. Whether you’re chasing lake views, top-tier tuna, or Korean comfort food, one thing’s for sure — this is not your average sushi scene.
